topic Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom??? in Among Friends

Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

Mary Bailey — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 03:28:11 GMT

I need suggestions please..

My DIL is Japanese. They (DS DIL GD) will be going to Japan for my DIL's Mom to meet my son & our GD.

I'd like to send a little something with them from me. She sent me (through DIL) cute little elastics with flowers to hold up sleeves. She made them!!!!

I have no idea what I can send to her that was as thoughtful as her homemade item.

Please any ideas?

Thank you so much

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

Love my grandkids — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 03:37:23 GMT

@Mary Bailey This is easy. Get some ideas from your DIL. She would know what her mom likes.

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

Kachina624 — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 03:40:19 GMT

How about several products for which your state is known? You know, local specialities.

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

Sooner — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 03:41:04 GMT

@Mary Bailey A small frame with picture or pictures of your son when he was growing up. I never recommend frames and pictures for a gift, but in this case it seems perfect.

Or one of those little wallets that hold photos.

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

ThinkingOutLoud — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 03:59:27 GMT

How about a pin/brooch? They can be used on lapels, hats and various ways in the home.

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

qualitygal — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 11:48:13 GMT

Find out what her hobbies are and buy her some supplies!!!

If it's going through customs on an airplane, be sure they allow it.

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

godi — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 12:15:32 GMT

How about a heartfelt note you place in a card.

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

Sooner — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 17:50:14 GMT

One thing I try to remember about gift giving is to not up the ante so to speak. Don't put the gift giver on the spot by making your gift to them more than they spent.

Since you received a sweet token from the lady, I wouldn't go beyond that. The card suggestion was perfect and include some snapshots of your son when he was a kid. And a snap of the family together would be nice too.

The best gift to give is never more than you received. . .

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

Mary Bailey — Sat, 11 Dec 2021 03:15:25 GMT

Thank you ALL for the suggestions. Very helpful all!!!

I've found a few DS & family pics. I will write a card, saying Happy to be part of her family and that her Daughter & our GD are joys. If I can find a little cardinal I'll send that too, since it's the state bird of IL

Thanks again! my best to you all

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

beach-mom — Sat, 11 Dec 2021 03:35:44 GMT

@Mary Bailey - You already have a wonderful idea, and once again @Kachina624 had a great answer! Your gift idea is sweet and personal. Your son's MIL will love it!

I'm coming at this from two perspectives. I taught in Japan. The custom of exchanging gifts was one I quickly learned about. And I adopted it gladly!

Also, when DS was in middle school he was in a state choral group that traveled all over the US and to other countries. The advice they gave the parents was to send a gift to the host parents in other countries that reflected the area your child was from. DS got thank you notes from some of the "host parents" that he still has!

Re: Suggestions for small gift for DIL's mom???

Mary Bailey — Sat, 11 Dec 2021 23:00:27 GMT

They are not going for at least a year. I have the photos picked out. I just need a couple of little IL items.

Thanks again for all the great suggestions!